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New Hampshire Vacation Ideas

New Hampshire Vacation Ideas

New Hampshire is a unique state, filled with its own one-of-a-kind charms that allow it to stand out from the rest of New England’s marvelous states. When it comes to putting together a list of New Hampshire vacation ideas, there’s the potential for a lot of suggestions. First, there are great destinations in southern New Hampshire that are ideal for a quick weekend getaway or a lengthier romantic rendezvous. There’s even excellent skiing, golf and hiking. Northern New Hampshire’s rolling mountains and top-notch skiing make it a retreat worthy of a longer stay to experience all the region has to offer.

When it’s time to plan your next – or first – New Hampshire vacation, here are a few ideas to add to your shortlist. These high-rated resorts, inns and boutique hotels are some of New England’s finest!

The Glen House Hotel (Gorham)
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The Glen House Hotel (Gorham)

The Glen House Hotel at the base of Mount Washington Auto Road is the perfect jumping-off spot to explore northern New Hampshire. Guests have immediate access to the Auto Road and the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center’s plethora of outdoor fun. Take a multi-hour tour along the road, drive to the summit, and stop off at the many scenic pull-offs for amazing family photos and sightseeing. Tour the Red Barn Museum or visit the Mount Washington Observatory. There’s a lot to do!

The Glen House Hotel allows pets and has a convenient fitness center so you can get in a workout. The Notch Grille at the hotel is a family restaurant that plates comfort foods that appeal to all ages.

White Mountain Hotel (North Conway)

White Mountain Hotel (North Conway)

If you’re looking for a retreat with big views, take a closer look at the White Mountain Hotel and Resort. The inn sits at the base of Cathedral Ledge and White Horse and presents panoramic mountain views that are unparalleled. The 80-room hotel is conveniently located near North Conway’s popular outlet shopping in addition to several ski resorts and a couple of family-friendly amusement parks that are top-notch.

The hotel’s impeccable attention to detail is reflected in the tasteful guest rooms that are elegant but suitable for a family with rambunctious children. The hotel is the perfect mix of luxury and location. Top that with an award-winning restaurant – Ledges – and it’s easy to see why this resort is a hit.

The NASWA Resort (Laconia)

The NASWA Resort (Laconia)

Lake Winnipesaukee has been an inland family destination for generations, known for its fun water sports, relaxing community and excellent dining choices that range from interesting taverns and coffee shops to succulent fine dining. At Naswa Resort, visitors are treated to an eclectic mix of both. The inn’s 1,000-foot private sandy beach near Interlaken Park gives guest immediate access to the cove’s pristine waters and plenty of room to spread out a beach towel.

The hotel’s wonderfully appointed guest rooms have all of today’s modern amenities, and the onsite Blue Bistro Restaurant has tasty fare and prime views of the water. NazBar and Grill is a great place to grab a cold brew or treat the kids to a refreshing smoothie.

Purity Springs Resort (East Madison)

Purity Springs Resort (East Madison)

Purity Spring Resort in east-central New Hampshire is a picture-perfect getaway for summer fun on the lake. In the winter, it’s ideal for skiing at King Pine, cross-country skiing, a tubing park and an ice-skating rink. With a prime location between the White Mountains and the beautiful Lakes Region, the resort presents endless opportunities for single travelers, romantic couples, retirees, families and larger groups – no matter the season. The outlet stores in North Conway are only a short drive for those in need of a little retail therapy.

The boutique inn has lakeside and hillside residences available with enchanting interior décor and functional amenities. Traditions Restaurant and The Pub are on site and offer a robust family-oriented menu.

 Red Jacket Mountain View Resort (North Conway)

Red Jacket Mountain View Resort (North Conway)

Now here’s a family destination near North Conway that’s sure to make a splash with the kids. (And anyone else willing to take the plunge at the resort’s massive indoor water park.) The Red Jacket Mountain View Resort’s 40,000-square-foot water park sets the resort apart from the rest, and the breathtaking views, convenient access to Mt. Washington’s outdoor activities puts it over the top.

The 148-room hotel sits on Sunset Hill in the heart of the White Mountains. As the name implies, the end-of-the-day scenery is well regarded by the locals and any traveler lucky enough to experience it. The resort rounds out the full family experience with a hearty restaurant, delicious grill and the fun Tiki Tide Café at the water park.

Omni Mount Washington

Omni Mount Washington

The Omni Mount Washington Resort is the quintessential New Hampshire vacation resort. The world-class inn embraces the finer things in life, greeting discerning travelers for generations – including U.S. Presidents, dignitaries, artists and intellectuals. The resort serves up championship golf on a Donald Ross classic 18-hole course and a challenging nine-hole links setup that’s a contest even for those with a low handicap. There’s clay-court tennis, invigorating indoor and outdoor heated pools, whirlpools and saunas, a soothing spa and the best skiing in New Hampshire is only minutes away.

The hotel’s dining room is a marvelous spot for an unforgettable dinner. Following your meal, escape to the Veranda for an after-dinner stroll before making your way to The Cave, an old speakeasy with creative cocktails and entertainment on select evenings.

Ames Farm Inn & Resort (Gilford)

Ames Farm Inn & Resort (Gilford)

Ames Farm Inn has been welcoming guests to its lakeside resort on the western shores of Lake Winnipesaukee since 1890. Most guests have been vacationing there for decades as an annual tradition. The resort offers an unplugged lakeside vacation experience where kids roam freely, and adults can relax and recharge in a memorable setting. The inn is a hit with families, fishermen, boaters and anyone who wants to disconnect from mainstream society for a bit without sacrificing any of today’s contemporary conveniences.

The 135-acre resort has more than a quarter-mile of private beach and a nice selection of cottages with tasteful appointments. The onsite restaurant hits all the right notes with its signature blueberry pancakes and real New Hampshire maple syrup.

Mill Falls at the Lake

Mill Falls at the Lake

Sometimes the best vacations are when you can just go one place, unpack and unwind. Who wants to spend their entire vacation shuffling from must-do to must-do? At Mill Falls at Lake Winnipesaukee, you don’t even need to leave the resort to have a complete vacation. With 171 designer guest rooms from which to choose, 1,000 feet of pristine waterfront, unique shopping, a luxury spa experience, an onsite activity center and five unique restaurants, each with its own delectable menu, what’s the point of venturing too far?

The vibrant Main Street community is a great reason to get out and about. Not to mention the lakeside boardwalk, ice-skating on the bay, exploring the lake by boat, or attending one of the region’s frequent wine tastings.

Eagle Mountain House (Jackson)

Eagle Mountain House (Jackson)

Eagle Mountain House is an outdoor sports lover’s dream. The 96-inn boutique hotel offers USGA-rated golf, world-class cross-country trails, and access to seven local ski areas. Couple that with amazing shopping at North Conway and convenience to Story Land theme park and it’s easy to see why the inn greets guests for adventure all year long.

The traditional white clapboard inn has a classic New England interior with rich wood tones, a warm color palette and thoughtful furnishings throughout. Highfields Restaurant serves a casual, traditional menu of classic comfort cuisine. The Veranda Café offers meals and drinks served tableside or in a relaxing rocking chair. Eagle Landing Tavern has a tasty bar menu with regional favorites and hearty brews.